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USGS · 5211441

Ecotoxicology: Lead

A.M. Scheuhammer·W. N. Beyer·C. J. Schmitt
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Abstract

Lead (Pb) is a naturally occurring metallic element; trace concentrations are found in all environmental media and in all living things. However, certain human activities, especially base metal mining and smelting; combustion of leaded gasoline; the use of Pb in hunting, target shooting, and recreational angling; the use of Pb-based paints; and the uncontrolled disposal of Pb-containing products such as old vehicle batteries and electronic devices have resulted in increased environmental levels of Pb, and have created risks for Pb exposure and toxicity in invertebrates, fish, and wildlife in some ecosystems.

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A.M. Scheuhammer, W. N. Beyer, C. J. Schmitt. 2008. Ecotoxicology: Lead. https://pubs.usgs.gov/publication/5211441

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